Top Album Picks: February 2021
Ten records worth checking out in a busy-season of top quality releases
This month was a watershed of great new albums. Here are some of my favorites in an easy-to-consume enumerated list. *Place values are for the sake of list-making and subject to change as the album is repeatedly played and this reviewer changes their mind. Listen along with this handy-dandy Spotify playlist.
1. Claud // Super Monster
Feb 12, 2021
toastmp3.bandcamp.com // Saddest Factory
This enchanting debut LP from the non-binary, bedroom-pop prodigy Claud Mintz auspiciously launches Phoebe Bridgers' new record label.
2. Katy Kirby // Cool, Dry Place
Feb 19, 2021
Katykirbyon.bandcamp.com // Keeled Scales
The Incredibly loveable Texas indie-folk artist has crafted a debut that melds charming pop hooks and sincere songwriting.
3. Ghetts // Conflict of Interest
Feb 19, 2021
twitter.com/therealghetts // Warner UK
London MC Justin Clarke ups his already acclaimed game and dense writing skills for his major-label debut.
4. Cassandra Jenkins // An Overview on Phenomenal Nature
Feb 19, 2021
cassandrajenkins.bandcamp.com // Ba Da Bing!
A Superbly intelligent sophomore album has some of the richest storytelling of the year.
5. Julien Baker // Little Oblivions
Feb. 26, 2021
julienbaker.bandcamp.com // Matador Records
Brand new third album by the brilliant singer-songwriter and member of BoyGenius continues her personal explorations.
6. Black Country, New Road
Feb. 5, 2021
blackcountrynewroad.bandcamp.com // Ninja Tune
This eagerly-awaited debut record from the seven-piece London band mines for discordant indie rock gold and often hits.
7. Tash Sultana // Terra Firma
Feb 19, 2021
tashsultana.com // Mom+Pop
The second studio album from the soulful Australian YouTube sensation and one-person-band harnesses the mesmerizing dexterity of their live performances.
8. The Hold Steady // Open Door Policy
Feb. 19, 2021
theholdsteady.bandcamp.com // Positive Jams
The eighth album from Craig Finn and company follow up with 2019's Thrashing Through the Passion with this formidable bookend.
9. Mogwai // As The Love Continues
Feb. 19, 2021
mogwai.bandcamp.com // Temporary Residence Limited
The tenth album by the Scottish post-rockers once again features mostly instrumental epics and sonic backdrops.
10. Virginia Wing // Private LIFE
Feb 12, 2021
virginiawingmusic.bandcamp.com // Fire Records
As the Manchester group (once a duo, now a trio) heads into their fifth full-length, indietronica sensibilities are turned up as creatively as ever.
